What Is a Tube Pan Used for In a Bakery?

A cake baked in a tube pan may have a glazed top.

Some cake recipes call for the use of a tube pan. Using another type of cake pan without understanding the purpose of a tube pan can result in the demise of your cake.

Function

A tube pan, also called an angle food cake pan, has a removable bottom with a tube that rises in the middle. Its construction transfers heat in a way that allows a large cake to bake evenly. Because of its shape, a cake baked in a tube pan typically does not require decoration, but may have a glaze.

Features

When buying a tube pan, compare the weight of the removable bottoms of the different models. The heavier the bottom, the more likely it will create a leak-free seal. Choose a pan with tabs on the top; you may find it easier to lift or turn the pan.

Alternatives

If your recipe calls for a tube pan and you do not have one, you may use other types of cake pans. You may use two 8 x 4-inch loaf pans, two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans, a 10-inch springform pan, a 10-inch bundt pan or a 11 x 7-inch baking dish.

References

• Purdue University: Tube Pan
• Cook's Illustrated: Tube Pans
• All Recipes: Cake Pan Size Conversions